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Wishing on the Stars: Tanabata Decorations in Japan

Hello, this is Eri.

July 7th marks Tanabata — the Star Festival in Japan.

It’s a romantic and traditional celebration based on the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, two lovers separated by the Milky Way who are allowed to meet only once a year on this night.

In Japan, we celebrate by writing wishes on small paper strips called tanzaku, and hanging them on bamboo branches. Cities and towns become vibrant with colorful decorations shaped like stars and streamers.

Yesterday, I visited the AEON Mall in Toki City, and was pleasantly surprised to see beautiful Tanabata decorations throughout the mall.

A wooden tunnel was adorned with hanging ornaments in all kinds of colors.

Bamboo leaves carried wishes written on tanzaku, swaying gently in the air — it truly felt like those wishes might float up to the sky.

At home, we’ve also started decorating for Tanabata.

These paper ornaments are called denguri.


They’re shaped like fruits or flowers, and we hang them from bamboo branches as part of the tradition.

Choosing and decorating with my children has become a special summer memory in itself.

Tomorrow is Tanabata.

What kind of wish would you write on your tanzaku?

Prefer to read in Japanese?

 日本語の記事はこちらからどうぞ。

Celebrate Tanabata with Mino Ware: Stars, Wishes, and Summer Flavors

Hello, this is Eri.

July 7th marks Tanabata, a traditional Japanese festival.

It is inspired by a romantic legend where Orihime and Hikoboshi, two lovers separated by the Milky Way, are allowed to meet only once a year—on this special night.

On Tanabata, people write wishes on colorful paper strips and hang them on bamboo branches. Star-themed decorations also add a festive touch to the celebration.

This occasion also brings seasonal charm to the dining table.

A popular Tanabata dish is somen noodles, arranged to resemble the Milky Way.

These smooth, chilled noodles are perfect for Japan’s humid summer and provide a refreshingly cool treat.

You can garnish the plate with star-shaped carrots or cucumber slices cut like bamboo leaves for a touch of summer flair.

At Miyake Ceramics, we offer tableware that complements the Tanabata season beautifully.

Our star-shaped small bowls are ideal for holding condiments like chopped myoga, ginger, or shiso leaves.

Leaf-shaped plates inspired by bamboo are perfect for serving small appetizers or traditional sweets.

The soba cups with bamboo designs are great for dipping sauce, and the bamboo-leaf chopstick rests subtly add a seasonal accent to the setting.

By reflecting the season in your choice of tableware, your everyday meals can feel a little more special.

Why not celebrate Tanabata night with elegant, refreshing dishes that embrace the spirit of the season?

Prefer to read in Japanese?

 日本語の記事はこちらからどうぞ。

HOFEX 2017

We have participated HOFEX 2017, which is one of the largest hotels and restaurants trade show in Hong Kong.

This year, we have arranged our booth with Noritake and Luzerne, sponsored by NIJI CONCEPT.

Our Japanese tableware was colourful and gorgeous to catch visitors’ eyes, and we have received great reputation and feedback throughout the show.

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